I think this car is essentially a modern-day Metro: similar size, weight & fuel economy to the last generation Metro, but with a more advanced engine (eg. MIVEC variable valve control) giving more power, safety & options.

It seems to have most of the bells and whistles. The start/stop would certainly be great to have here. Sadly, I doubt they'll bring it here due to the EPA (US fuel economy) test not accounting for cars being stopped sitting at a light or stop sign. Start/stop systems show zero benefit on this test cycle despite real world benefits of around 10% in city driving.

Another thing I noted was that it doens't have is direct injection. Most of the new engines have this, but both of the Mirage engines have multipoint fuel injection. I was reading in some Australian (I think) article where they claimed that they dropped the idea of direct injection due to the cost of adding it. There was also the issue with fuel quality in developing countries that makes direct injection a bit more finicky.

arollinstone - so far I've only seen one set of gear ratios published (here). I'm seriously hoping they don't "dumb down" the ratios for Canada/US to cater to drivers here who aren't willing/capable of downshifting from top gear when more power is needed. I want my tall top gear!

The 5th gear ratio can still be taller, actually. 4th and 5th are close enough together that I treat the gearbox as a 4-speed (1-2-3-5) in light to moderate traffic. Top gear cruising at 100kph (62mph) results in the engine spinning at 3k RPM. From what I hear from other owners, CVT Mirages cruise at that same speed with the engine at 2k RPM.

Interesting thats a big change in rpm at 100klm between the cvt and manual. Cvt trans are not always as efficient as a manual box. They tend to have a lot more friction on the variable drive belts in them. And Alpha One mentioned the cvt has a bigger radiator fitted then the manual most likly to deal with the extra heat from the cvt.

arollinstone - so far I've only seen one set of gear ratios published (here). I'm seriously hoping they don't "dumb down" the ratios for Canada/US to cater to drivers here who aren't willing/capable of downshifting from top gear when more power is needed. I want my tall top gear!

I feel ya MetroMPG, I followed in your foot steps and got spoiled by the 3.52s. 2400 rpms at 60 mph but I don't go that fast.